Three-star OL Gavin Ericson-Staton takes on B1G challenge with flip to Illini: ‘I like to do some hard things’ – 247Sports

Gavin Ericson-Staton admits wrestling “sucks” sometimes. The sport is difficult and requires a lot of sacrifice. But that test of perseverance, discipline and tenacity is why Ericson-Staton is attracted to the sport.

“Even when the sport does suck, it just shows all the hard work and determination and mental toughness that it takes to break through that and just work hard through it,” Ericson-Staton said.

The Montini Catholic (Ill.) Class of 2027 offensive lineman also prefers to play center as opposed to guard and tackle — he played right tackle as a junior— because it’s difficult. The center has to read the defense, make pre-snap calls, snap the ball and then win a physical battle, often in a one-on-one block. It’s quite a mentally and physically taxing position. But, again, Ericson-Staton finds pleasure in doing difficult things.

“It’s a challenge, and sometimes you just like a challenge; I think I like that,” Ericson-Staton said. “I think it comes back to the wrestling part. I think it’s just like wrestling. I like to do some hard things, and it’s just fun.”

So when it came to picking a college football team, it’s no surprise Ericson-Staton went looking for the biggest challenge. Two months ago, he felt the best fit was in the Big 12 with Iowa State, a program that had prioritized him since offering in February.

But a bigger opportunity came just a month later. Illinois offered Ericson-Staton a scholarship on May 13, and the in-state offensive lineman was immediately intrigued.  The Illini staff quickly showed Ericson-Staton he was a priority, and he committed to Illinois during an official visit to campus during the weekend.

That ensured Ericson-Staton his biggest challenge of all: playing in the Big Ten.